FIRST SWING GOLF CLINICS
My name is Gary Hart and I’ve been an amputee since 2003. I was born in Belle Isle, Leeds, Yorkshire. I first played Rugby League for Hunslet and
represented and Captained Yorkshire against Australia under 18's at an age of
15, then I switched to football, (soccer) and came to Australia in 1982.. I’ve been fortunate to have been involved with clubs like Leeds United, York City, West Adelaide, Birkalla, Elizabeth City and Azzuri.
I feel I’m a fortunate person to have been able to travel and do things I’ve enjoyed throughout my life. Before my amputation I was active in lots of charity events and fundraising and I also coached soccer and tennis at senior and junior levels. I’ve now completed my Level 1 Certificate for coaching golf and it seems like one big circle – and I’m at the beginning again.
I feel now that I just want to give back and work with people in similar circumstances to mine, hence my reason for founding the First Swing Golf Clinics in South Australia. I feel fortunate again and I want to encourage fellow amputees and the disabled (and this is only a word), to get out and give it a go. I’m still new at this but I will give 120% in my efforts to provide information and support for everyone concerned. Please remember there are no limits for anybody.
Golf has already been found to be an ideal form of rehabilitation and recreation for amputees and the disabled. However, First Swing golf clinics in South Australia are about far more than just learning to play golf. They create an opportunity for participants, their family and friends to get together with their peers and socialise with people in the same situation. to be able to (network) get together to discuss certain issues for the future.
It also provides a safe and comfortable environment for participants within their own peer environment. It reduces depression and loneliness, builds physical, mental and emotional confidence. It opens up a network of support for participants and their families and also reduces social isolation and it enables those living with a physical disability to participate in sport with their peers as well as those without a disability. Golf enables everyone to compete on an equal footing, opens up opportunities to participate in golf at different levels, local, national and international.
Peer support
It will give each individual confidence, a sense of achievement for a healthier and stronger future while adjusting to a life as an amputee.
Open to men, women and children.
Melissa Noonan from Limbs for Life has visited Adelaide to start organising a peer support group which I fully support, she has already achieved very successfully in Victoria.
Wishing you good health and happiness.
Gary Hart
Founder and president of the South Australian Amputee golf association.
Supported by my Beautiful wife Eleanor
We are a non profit, charitable organisation |
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